Ramara township council used its October 20 meeting to launch preparations for its first municipal budget under Ontario's new "strong mayor" framework, alongside a series of community announcements and servicing decisions, according to the Township of Ramara.
Mayor Clarke announced that 2026 budget discussions would begin at a Special Council Meeting on Thursday, October 23, at 9:30 a.m. in Council Chambers. The session was also to be streamed live on YouTube.
Residents were invited to review the budget package online at ramara.ca/budget, or in person at the Administration Centre or the Township Library. Feedback could be shared with Ward Councillors, and residents could register to speak at the open public forum by 9 a.m. on October 23.
Election results and library week
The Township has also released the certified results of the 2026 Municipal and School Board Election.
Mayor Clarke proclaimed October 19–25 as Ontario Public Library Week in Ramara. This year's theme, Libraries for Life, celebrates the role libraries play in supporting lifelong learning, connection and community. He encouraged residents to visit the Ramara Township Public Library to explore its programs and services.
Halloween at the fire hall
The Mayor also invited the community to Ramara Fire and Rescue's annual Haunted House at Fire Station 2 in Atherley on Halloween night, from 6 to 8 p.m., with residents young and old encouraged to dress up in costume.
Workshop for local farmers
Ramara Township, partnering with the Townships of Oro-Medonte and Severn and the Orillia Area CDC, was set to host a free workshop on Food Safety and Regulations for On-Farm Diversification on Wednesday, November 12, from 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Oro-Medonte Community Banquet Hall.
The workshop is geared toward local farmers and food producers interested in diversifying their operations and learning more about provincial food safety requirements.
Committee and council decisions
Committee of the Whole supported receiving a report on water and sewer servicing for 3355 County Road 47 and proceeding with the work, which is required as a condition of a 2021 land sale. The cost of $36,905.50 plus HST will be funded from the proceeds of that sale. The report was referred to the October 20 Council agenda for same-day ratification.
The committee also recommended approval of the 2026 Council/Committee of the Whole meeting schedule.
The Township noted that committee recommendations were subject to ratification by Council at its next meeting on November 3, unless pulled for same-day ratification.
Residents can read the full meeting agenda on the Township's Meeting Portal or watch the meeting on the Township of Ramara's YouTube channel. The Township notes that while the highlights are prepared as a timely update, the adopted Council meeting minutes are the official record of the meeting.
